A rise in the use of disabled persons railcards and an increase in requests for passenger assistance show us that more people with accessibility needs are choosing rail travel.
This is a positive development, reflecting growing confidence in rail as a mode of transport for everyone.
However, it also brings real challenges for train operating companies.
Most of the GB rail network infrastructure was built long before modern accessibility standards were introduced. Platform heights and distances between the platform and the train vary widely.
On top of this, curved platforms are common across the network, with 22% having a radius less than 1,000 metres. This means that there are frequently larger gaps that can be difficult or even impossible for some people to negotiate without help.
As a result, many passengers still rely on ramps and staff assistance to board and exit trains. And unfortunately, stories do appear in the media of journeys disrupted by problems in providing adequate assistance for travellers with accessibility needs.
When it comes to rolling stock, some older trains still in use were designed before the advent of better accessibility standards. A large range of train floor heights and door positions add further issues and complications.
Moreover, such challenges are recognised at the highest level. The government’s recently announced Accessibility Roadmap prioritises major improvements. Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy describes it as ‘a practical plan to deliver real, measurable change, ahead of the establishment of Great British Railways’. It includes better station lift reliability, expanded Disabled Persons Railcard eligibility, and better support for disabled passengers.
Improving accessibility for all rail passengers
Against this background, the industry is making progress. Some operators have introduced lower-floor trains and features such as sliding steps. These come out at the doorway when the train doors open to bridge the gap.
Then there is Merseyrail. They get a special mention for working with Merseytravel and Network Rail to modify more than 90 platforms as well as introduce new trains designed for full accessibility. Their approach is to prioritise accessibility from the outset, using coordinated rolling stock and infrastructure with features such as wider aisles and step-free access to lifts.
RSSB is also helping the industry respond to rising accessibility demands with its expertise in social value and rail research. Recent projects are developing new ways to measure accessibility. This helps operators to identify where improvements are most needed and how best to prioritise investment.
For example, RSSB supports the development of guidance for the safe use of portable ramps, considering both passenger needs and the health and safety of staff. There are important musculoskeletal factors to include when dealing with heavy portable ramps. Research into human factors will inform ramp design and training decisions for rail staff operating them. It is not only the customers who need to be kept safe and satisfied, but the employees who are there to assist them too.
Collaboration for lasting change
Despite all the progress being made, the industry still faces a very large challenge. With around 6,000 platforms across the mainline network, even 100 upgrades per year would take decades to complete. Each improvement needs careful coordination between rolling stock and infrastructure as well. And sometimes there can be short-term disruptions, such as temporary station closures or service changes.
As accessibility demands continue to grow, rail leaders have the opportunity to rise to the challenge. Investment in infrastructure and rolling stock must go hand in hand, guided by a clear vision and realistic planning. By learning from accessibility best practices and working collaboratively, the industry can ensure that rail travel is safe, accessible, and satisfying for customers—across the board.